Pop-up ping pong at shopping centre unit
APING pong parlour has opened at Runcorn Shopping City in a bid to put a vacant unit to innovative use.
Double Olympian and former England number one Andrea Holt was guest of honour for the official launch alongside Halton’s mayor and mayoress John and Marjorie Bradshaw.
The parlour has four tables and is located next to JD Sports.
It now looks set to stay after a trial run proved a hit with visitors including dads looking for something to do while their wives go shopping.
Organised in conjunction with Table Tennis England, the parlour is open seven days a week from noon-6pm, and offers free 20-minute sessions.
No booking is required and all equipment is provided.
Karl Clawley, Shopping City manager, said: “The Ping Pong Parlour offers everyone a chance to put down their smart phone and tablet, and really interact with their friends and family.
“The parlour includes a coffee bar too, so people can relax with a drink and enjoy a fun, sociable time.
“Table tennis has some great health benefits, both mental and physical, and there is no pressure to be a sporting super star.
“Many people find it slightly intimidating to go to a gym, ● particularly if they’re not used to keeping fit.
“Here you can just turn up in your normal clothes and have fun.
“The ping pong parlour has been open on a trial basis for a fortnight and has been a winner with all ages and fitness levels.
“Wives have dropped off their husbands while they go shopping and parents have discovered it’s a great way to connect with their children.”
Andrea Holt said: “We hope this will become a new community hub that everyone will enjoy using.
“Only 11% of women and girls currently get involved in sport so it would be great to see more female players.
“Table Tennis England has been involved in establishing 38 ping pong parlours in public places across the country and we hope to see many more.
“Table tennis has so many benefits for the brain and physical muscles that it really is a no brainer.”